At Cavendish Park Care Home, community, creativity, and connection are at the heart of everything we do. This National Volunteer Week, we’re thrilled to spotlight our incredible Makaton Choir – a group that began as a resident activity and blossomed into a community-wide initiative, culminating in a performance at the prestigious Care Sector’s Got Talent 2025 finals.
From a Simple Idea to a Community Movement
About a year ago, Julie, who leads the community signing choir Hands In Harmony, approached us to use our Cavendish Room for her Tuesday evening rehearsals. At the time, Julie’s mother was a resident in our home, and she often used signing to communicate with her mum. That heartfelt connection sparked a wonderful idea: why not start a daytime Makaton group for residents, too?
Today, the group has 8 regular resident members and is looking to open up the group to the wider community for more local performances and sessions.
Taking the Stage at Care Sector’s Got Talent 2025
In a bold and exciting move, the Cavendish Park Makaton Choir entered Care Sector’s Got Talent 2025, an event organised by Championing Social Care to showcase talents within the care sector. Their unique blend of signing and singing earned them a spot in the finals at Birmingham’s Rep Theatre.
On the big day, the choir traveled to Birmingham, nerves and excitement in tow. Dressed in their signature orange attire, they performed ABBA’s “Thank You for the Music,” captivating the audience with their heartfelt rendition.
“Care Sector’s Got Talent was exciting but nerve wracking, I was very excited about being in the finals, attending and going to Birmingham. Once we were on stage it was a marvellous feeling — brilliant!”
— Sandy James, resident and choir member
A Learning Opportunity for Everyone
During rehearsals, Cavendish Park were lucky to have Molly, a student from Pershore College, join the group as part of her care course work experience. She shared:
“Taking part in Care Sector’s Got Talent was very enjoyable and it provided me with a new experience and also taught me how to sign. Which is a great and very important skill to have. Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed the new experience that it provided me with.”
— Molly, student volunteer
The Impact of Volunteers and Community Engagement
Volunteers have been instrumental in the choir’s success. Their commitment extends beyond weekly sessions, with performances at local events like the Evesham Baptist Church open day and Christmas celebrations at All Saints Church. These engagements have strengthened community bonds and showcased the talents within Cavendish Park.
Empowering Communication Through Makaton
Makaton has opened new avenues for expression among our residents. The choir sessions are filled with laughter, learning, and a sense of achievement. Residents like Sandy and Margaret have found joy and purpose in mastering a new skill.
Together, the Makaton group provide fun and laughter while empowering individuals to better communicate their needs and build confidence.
💬 Want to get involved or learn more about our vibrant lifestyle at Cavendish Park?
Visit our Wellbeing & Lifestyle page or follow us on Facebook for updates on events, performances, and opportunities.
Let the music – and the signing – continue! 🎶🧡
